Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
This kit comprises two medications: a fluconazole capsule and a tube of clotrimazole cream. Fluconazole, an azole antifungal, is administered orally to address vaginal yeast infections. The clotrimazole cream, also an azole antifungal, is applied to the skin in and around the vaginal area to alleviate symptoms like burning, itching, and redness associated with a vaginal yeast infection. Both medications operate by halting the growth of the yeast (fungus) responsible for the infection.
Uses and Dosage
If you are using the over-the-counter product for self-treatment, carefully read and adhere to all the directions on the product package before using this medication. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor.
Take the fluconazole capsule orally, with or without food, as directed by your doctor, typically as a one-time only dose.
The dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to the treatment.
For itching or burning in or around the vaginal area, apply a small amount of the cream once or twice daily for a maximum of 7 days.
Remember to wash your hands before and after use. Avoid contact of the cream with your eyes, and if it comes into contact, rinse your eyes promptly with plenty of water. Contact your doctor if eye irritation persists.
You should observe some improvement in your symptoms within 1 day of taking the fluconazole. Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve after 3 days or if it persists for more than 7 days.
Inform your doctor if the infection returns within 2 months, as you may require a different or additional medication to address the infection.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- burning, irritation, itching, redness, rash, stinging, swelling of the skin where the cream was applied
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- blistering
- hives
- peeling
- difficulty breathing
- swelling of the face and throat
Caution
- Before using fluconazole or clotrimazole, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to either of them, or to other azole antifungal drugs like ketoconazole or itraconazole. Additionally, disclose any other allergies, as this product may contain inactive ingredients that could lead to allergic reactions or other complications.
- Prior to using this medication, share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have liver disease or kidney disease.
- Fluconazole may cause QT prolongation, a condition affecting heart rhythm that can rarely lead to serious, and in rare cases, fatal fast/irregular heartbeat. If you experience severe dizziness, fainting, or other symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. The risk of QT prolongation may increase with certain medical conditions or the use of other drugs that can cause QT prolongation. Inform your doctor of all the medications you are taking and disclose any history of heart problems or a family history of certain heart issues.
- Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood may also increase the risk of QT prolongation. This risk may be elevated with certain drugs or certain conditions such as severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Discuss the safe use of fluconazole with your doctor.
- This drug may rarely cause dizziness. Alcohol or marijuana can enhance this effect. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness until you can do so safely.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, particularly QT prolongation.
- During pregnancy, use these medications only when clearly needed. Clotrimazole cream may reduce the effectiveness of latex condoms and diaphragms during treatment and for 3 days after the last use. Fluconazole may harm an unborn baby if taken during the first 3 months of pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- Fluconazole passes into breast milk, and while it is unknown if clotrimazole passes into breast milk, the likelihood is low. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Canesten Combi-Pack is available in the following forms and strengths:
- clotrimazole and fluconazole topical cream and oral capsule:
- 1 % / 150 mg
FAQ
How long can I use Canesten Topical Cream?
Canesten Topical Cream should only be used for 3 days if you’re using the 2% strength cream and 7 days if you’re using the 1% strength cream.
What happens if I use too much Canesten Topical Cream?
If you use too much Canesten Topical Cream or use it more often than you need to, it may make your skin irritated, or red.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/clotrimazole-non-prescription/what-is#faqs
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/clotrimazole-for-thrush/how-and-when-to-use-clotrimazole-for-thrush/#:~:text=If%20you%20use%20too%20much%20external%20clotrimazole%20cream%20or%20use,may%20feel%20discomfort%20or%20irritation
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/clotrimazole-topical-route/description/drg-20063212
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a618059.html#:~:text=Topical%20clotrimazole%20is%20used%20to,the%20feet%20and%20between%20the
- https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/medications/Pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=fdb1324#:~:text=Fluconazole%20is%20an%20azole%20antifungal,with%20a%20vaginal%20yeast%20infection
- https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/medications/clotrimazole-cream-and-fluconazole-capsule-kit
